Understand the words. Know what to do.
Plain-language definitions with a practical action for each term. Search by the word you saw or the problem you are trying to understand.
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Definitions are intentionally practical and simplified. They do not replace technical, legal, incident-response, or regulatory advice.
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16 terms shown
- RecoveryBackup
- Also: Recovery copy
- A separate copy of important information that can be restored after loss, damage, deletion, or some attacks.
- What this means for youKeep the copy protected and separate, then test that you can restore it.
- DataData breach
- Also: Information exposure
- An incident where personal, confidential, or protected information is accessed, lost, changed, or disclosed without authorisation.
- What this means for youContain the exposure, preserve evidence, assess who may be affected, and get qualified support where needed.
- DataEncryption
- Also: Encrypted
- A way of transforming information so it cannot be read normally without the correct key or authorised access.
- What this means for youUse supported devices and services that protect stored and transmitted information, while still securing the account and recovery process.
- DevicesMalware
- Also: Malicious software, Virus
- Software designed to steal, damage, spy, disrupt, or gain unauthorised access to a device or information.
- What this means for youKeep supported software updated, remove untrusted apps, and seek qualified help if a device behaves suspiciously.
- AccountsMFA
- Also: Multi-factor authentication, 2FA, Two-step verification
- A sign-in process that asks for more than a password, such as a security key, authenticator approval, passkey, or code.
- What this means for youProtect important accounts with the strongest suitable method the service supports, and never share a sign-in code.
- AccountsOTP
- Also: One-time password, Verification code
- A short-lived code used to confirm a sign-in, payment, recovery, or other sensitive action.
- What this means for youTreat it like a key. Enter it only when you started the action through the official service, and never send it to another person.
- AccountsPasskey
- Also: Passwordless sign-in
- A sign-in method tied to your device or password manager that uses cryptography instead of a reusable password.
- What this means for youUnderstand how the passkey is backed up or recovered before relying on it for an important account.
- AccountsPassword manager
- Also: Password vault
- A tool that generates and stores unique passwords so you do not need to reuse or remember every password.
- What this means for youChoose a reputable product and protect it with a unique master password and a clear recovery plan.
- ScamsPhishing
- Also: Fake message, Credential theft
- A deceptive message or page designed to make someone reveal information, send money, install software, or grant access.
- What this means for youPause and verify through a separate official channel instead of using the message's links or contact details.
- DevicesRansomware
- Also: File-encrypting attack
- Malware that blocks access to systems or information and demands payment, sometimes after stealing data as well.
- What this means for youDisconnect affected systems when safe, preserve evidence, activate the incident plan, and involve qualified response support.
- RecoveryRecovery code
- Also: Backup code
- A special code that can restore access when the normal sign-in or verification method is unavailable.
- What this means for youStore recovery codes privately, separately from the account, and never share them with someone offering help.
- AccountsSIM swap
- Also: SIM takeover
- When a criminal transfers a victim's mobile number to another SIM or service in order to receive calls and messages.
- What this means for youContact the mobile network quickly if service disappears unexpectedly, then protect email, financial, and other affected accounts.
- ScamsSocial engineering
- Also: Human manipulation
- Using trust, fear, urgency, authority, or curiosity to manipulate someone into taking an unsafe action.
- What this means for youSlow down, question unusual pressure, and verify the request independently.
- ScamsSpoofing
- Also: Impersonation
- Making a sender name, caller ID, email address, website, or other identity appear to come from a trusted source.
- What this means for youDo not rely on appearance alone; contact the person or organisation through details you already trust.
- DevicesUpdate
- Also: Security patch
- A software change that can fix known security weaknesses, reliability problems, or other defects.
- What this means for youEnable automatic updates for supported operating systems and trusted apps.
- DataVPN
- Also: Virtual private network
- A service that creates an encrypted connection between a device and a VPN provider; it does not make every website, account, or action trustworthy.
- What this means for youUse a reputable provider when a VPN fits the need, but still verify sites, protect accounts, and avoid suspicious downloads.